Bidirectional DC–DC converters are pivotal components in hybrid energy storage systems, renewable energy integration, and electric vehicle applications. The effectiveness of these converters hinges on the choice of control strategy, which governs the power flow between two DC sources. Key characteristics of the bidirectional Cuk converter include its ability to handle non-ideal input sources, low-input current ripple, and reduced electromagnetic interference. These features make it suitable for various power management scenarios, including battery charging and discharging, grid-tied energy systems, and hybrid power sources. This paper presents a comprehensive review of bidirectional Cuk converter for resistive loads, inductive loads, and battery energy storage system with DC and solar PV input. Comparative analyses based on key parameters, such as load voltage, load current, input and output inductor currents, and ripple content, provide valuable insights for engineers and researchers in selecting the most suitable control strategy for their specific applications. The paper also sheds light on emerging trends and future research directions in bidirectional converter control, contributing to the advancement of power electronics and energy management systems.